Distract, Delay, Delegate: Safer Ways Nurses Can De‑Escalate Harm — Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation® Stand Up for Safety: The Workplace Violence Awareness & Prevention Challenge — Day 6 5485

Distract, Delay, Delegate: Safer Ways Nurses Can De‑Escalate Harm — Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation® Stand Up for Safety: The Workplace Violence Awareness & Prevention Challenge — Day 6

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Day 6 — Distract, Delay, Delegate

 

Not every situation requires immediate confrontation. Direct confrontation isn’t the only way to make a difference. 

Often, the safest response is to: 

  • Distract to interrupt a tense moment 
  • Delay and check in with someone afterward 
  • Delegate by involving a colleague, leader, or security early, not as a last resort 

These approaches can de-escalate situations and signal support. 

 

Your Action for Today:

  • Think about which of these approaches feels most comfortable for you. Imagine how you might use it if needed. 
  • Consider saving the 5Ds framework in your phone or writing down one strategy you would realistically use in your setting. 

Today’s action is simply preparation. Even small moments of reflection and intention can strengthen confidence, support one another, and contribute to a culture where safety feels shared and possible. 

 

Join us on day 7: A sneak peek - Prepare language that helps you set clear, respectful boundaries when needed.  

 

Missed day 5? Catch up here.



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Blog Challenge Tips 04/13/2026 4:31pm CDT

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